Riding the waves – holding space for ongoing reflection and adaptation
What distinguishes the most effective groups, in my experience, is their ability to keep reflecting, learning and adapting as they pursue change and as circumstances change around them. However, these kinds of practices can be hard to develop and sustain for those on the frontlines. I help organisations and coalitions create and hold the space for ongoing reflection and adaptation. I help develop reflective practices that suit the character and context of groups and use methods such as power and stakeholder mapping, storytelling and most significant learning.
For example, I support the Yuwaya Ngarra-li partnership between the Dharriwaa Elders’ Group and UNSW to regularly consider what is and isn’t working, how to strengthen community leadership and shift approaches to influencing change locally and systemically.